What IDAHOBIT Means To Our Post Pride Team

To mark our contribution to IDAHOBIT 2022, we asked some of our team members what the day, and being part of our inclusive team meant to them, and here’s what some had to say:

Ron Dickman (he/him/his), Senior Postal Services Officer WA:

“Lending my voice to contribute to IDAHOBIT as an out and proud gay man as well as an employee on behalf of Australia Post is such an honour. Being part of any positive change, be it large or small within the workplace and being given to the opportunity to raise awareness/education on a topic I am passionate about further solidifies my commitment not only to my employer but also continues to ignite that drive within to be an advocate for my fellow employees who identify as LGBTQIA+ that may not necessarily be out yet. With only just over 3% of our workforce openly identifying as part of the LGBTQIA+ in the workplace, it’s so important to be a visible role model and represent those who still face adversity and setbacks surrounding their sexual preference.

As a society, we have made so much progress in regard to the public views and beliefs on the acceptance of the LGBTQIA+ community. However, there are still groups and individuals who have negative opinions and feedback. There are still times when I’m out with friends socially and I’m in particular situations where I feel unsafe and have to ‘dial down’ my personality to blend in, for fear of an outspoken opinion regarding my sexual preference or worse, a physical altercation. Having to fight that instinct to just be yourself so you can fit in, it takes its toll emotionally and mentally. It’s a big reason that poor mental health is so prevalent in our LGBTQIA+ youth. 

Working for Australia Post, being celebrated and encouraged for our individuality and the unique aspects we each bring to the table, it’s so refreshing and instills a level of confidence within myself professionally and personally to constantly strive to be the best that I can be while at work, as well as pave the way for my fellow teammates that have yet to fully discover their own identity. Post have our values at work as TIES; Trust, Inclusivity, Empowerment and Safety. It’s not just a slogan or catchphrase. When it comes to these TIES, Australia Post delivers.”

Natalie Rolfe (she/her), Data Analyst, Customer & Network Support

“It's really important to me to be able to get the message out to all LGBTQIA+ team members that they should be safe from harassment or discrimination at work, and that there is support available for them when they need it. 

When I was younger, being queer wasn't something I could be open about because even the suspicion that someone wasn't straight or cisgender was met with derision or bullying. Not having to hide that part of myself on a day-to-day basis means it is easier to connect with my peers and makes life a lot less stressful.”

Rebecca Silvello, Acting Senior Postal Services Officer WA:

“Being able to contribute [to IDAHOBIT at Australia Post] means I can help others understand what it’s like for the LGBTQI+ community. Being part of a business that celebrates diversity has helped me be more open and honest with my colleagues about my own story and feel more accepted in the workplace.”

Stu Reynolds, Senior Manager International, Online Shop & After Hours:

“I'm old enough to remember a time when even in the workplace, having the opportunity to participate in days like IDAHOBIT would never have occurred; and really wasn't that long ago! It's personally given me the confidence to bring my 100% to work each day, and allowed me to use some of the confidence with others who may not be as confident.

In addition to giving me confidence, and in turn do better, being part of a business that openly welcomes and celebrates diversity has opened so many avenues to do positive things for the rest of the business as a result, eg: the Rainbow Peer Support group amongst other things. Having grown up in Sydney in the early 90s, and spending all my time in 'the bubble' of Darlo and Paddo (Darlinghurst and Paddington for those not from Sydney), and learning very quickly that not everyone agrees with who you are and what you are, you naturally look in life for greater acceptance, and there is no place in Australia like Australia Post to give you just that…that's why I love working here and love our people.”

At Australia Post, we proudly welcome and support people of any sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status. If you’d like to learn more, and join our team, visit www.auspost.com.au/jobs